Sing We Joyous All Together
Yesterday evening, Ocracoke’s jolly singers loaded up the wagon to bring Christmas cheer to the island community at every stop.
About thirty locals came out to carol – a good turn-out! We were lucky to have Pastor Ivey Belch towing us in his trailer, since we were set on making visits everywhere from Back Road to Bank Road to the Lighthouse loop!
Our group of carolers ranged from all ages and octaves. We got to sing our favorites – and the favorites of the people we stopped to serenade! General consensus is that Silent Night and Joy to the World are the most loved and requested, but we also got to slip in What Child Is This and O Come All Ye Faithful, as well as a group sing of Deck the Halls and Jingle Bells as we rode to each home. And, of course, we finished strong at every stop with a hardy belting of We Wish You A Merry Christmas.
No figgy pudding was had, but we did enjoy a fabulous chili dinner at the United Methodist Church Rec Hall after the evening of carols. The chili, scrumptious hot chocolate, crumbly cornbread, and delicious desserts were all provided by the wonderful United Methodist Women. Serving us were Kay Riddick, Stella O'Neal, Agnes Garrish, and Stephanie O'Neal. It was a belly-warming end to a heart-warming night.
I love getting to go caroling every year, because we bring songs to our loved ones while enjoying a great excuse to look at everybody’s Christmas light displays!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Editor's note: The annual Ocracoke Christmas Caroling event is co-sponsored by the Ocracoke United Methodist Church and the Assembly of God Church, and the churches take turns hosting the chili supper afterward. The pastors come up with a list of people to visit, mostly the island's elderly folks, and others who need some Christmas cheer. All are welcome to join in the festive fun.
